Firestarter Black Gum

Firestarter Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica 'JFS-red')

Firestarter Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica 'JFS-red') is a standout deciduous shade tree known for its uniform shape, dark green summer foliage, and brilliant scarlet-red fall color. Selected for its strong central leader and dense branching, this cultivar brings bold seasonal transitions to the landscape while maintaining a refined, symmetrical form throughout the growing season.

Distinctive Features

'Firestarter' features lustrous dark green leaves that remain clean and attractive through summer before turning a vibrant red in fall. The color transformation is consistent and reliable, even in warmer climates where other black gum varieties may show muted hues. The upright, narrowly pyramidal habit offers a strong vertical presence, making it an effective focal point in larger garden designs or open lawn spaces.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Prefers moist, acidic, well-drained soils but adapts to average garden soil
• Water: Moderate; more tolerant of wet soils than many shade trees
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Striking fall color and upright habit create a seasonal centerpiece
• Street Tree: Narrow form and strong branching suit urban and suburban settings
• Lawn Specimen: Clean shape and bold color for open spaces
• Wildlife Gardens: Attracts birds and pollinators with its berries and flowers
• Rain Gardens: Performs well in areas with periodic wet soil

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Regular watering during establishment; drought tolerant once mature
• Pruning: Minimal; naturally maintains a strong central leader
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced tree fertilizer if needed
• Mulching: Maintain a mulch ring to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture
• Adaptability: Resistant to pests and diseases; thrives in both rural and urban sites

Why Choose Firestarter Black Gum?

• Brilliant Red Fall Color: Provides unmatched seasonal interest
• Uniform Growth: Straight trunk and dense branching for predictable form
• Urban Tolerant: Handles heat, compacted soils, and moderate pollution
• Wildlife Friendly: Supports native pollinators and birds
• Focal Point: Autumn color and upright silhouette make it ideal for high-visibility plantings

Nyssa sylvatica 'JFS-red' Firestarter delivers fiery fall color with reliable structure and low maintenance needs, making it a smart choice for landscapes that demand seasonal impact and long-term performance.